Small Claims Court Lookup
Small Claims Court Limits by State
Maximum claim amounts, filing fees, and attorney rules for all 50 states
| State | Max Claim | Filing Fee | Attorneys Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $6,000 | $50–$300 | Yes |
| Alaska | $10,000 | $50–$100 | Yes |
| Arizona | $3,500 | $20–$70 | Yes |
| Arkansas | $5,000 | $30–$65 | Yes |
| California | $10,000 | $30–$75 | No |
| Colorado | $7,500 | $31–$55 | No (generally) |
| Connecticut | $5,000 | $40–$95 | Yes |
| Delaware | $25,000 | $35–$50 | Yes |
| Florida | $8,000 | $55–$300 | Yes |
| Georgia | $15,000 | $45–$60 | Yes |
| Hawaii | $5,000 | $35 | Yes |
| Idaho | $5,000 | $50–$69 | No |
| Illinois | $10,000 | $20–$75 | Yes |
| Indiana | $8,000 | $35–$82 | Yes |
| Iowa | $6,500 | $20–$95 | Yes |
| Kansas | $4,000 | $45–$75 | No |
| Kentucky | $2,500 | $20–$35 | No |
| Louisiana | $5,000 | $35–$100 | Yes |
| Maine | $6,000 | $50–$80 | Yes |
| Maryland | $5,000 | $34–$80 | Yes |
| Massachusetts | $7,000 | $30–$50 | Yes |
| Michigan | $6,500 | $30–$70 | No |
| Minnesota | $15,000 | $50–$75 | Yes |
| Mississippi | $3,500 | $31–$50 | Yes |
| Missouri | $5,000 | $20–$50 | Yes |
| Montana | $7,000 | $30–$50 | No |
| Nebraska | $3,600 | $26–$50 | No (generally) |
| Nevada | $10,000 | $55–$100 | Yes |
| New Hampshire | $10,000 | $55 | Yes |
| New Jersey | $5,000 | $15–$50 | Yes |
| New Mexico | $10,000 | $25–$75 | Yes |
| New York | $5,000 | $15–$20 | No |
| North Carolina | $10,000 | $46–$96 | Yes |
| North Dakota | $15,000 | $20–$75 | Yes |
| Ohio | $6,000 | $25–$60 | Yes |
| Oklahoma | $10,000 | $40–$84 | Yes |
| Oregon | $10,000 | $35–$52 | No |
| Pennsylvania | $12,000 | $45–$125 | Yes |
| Rhode Island | $2,500 | $20–$40 | Yes |
| South Carolina | $7,500 | $25–$80 | Yes |
| South Dakota | $12,000 | $30–$50 | Yes |
| Tennessee | $25,000 | $20–$50 | Yes |
| Texas | $20,000 | $31–$54 | Yes |
| Utah | $11,000 | $60–$185 | Yes |
| Vermont | $5,000 | $50–$75 | Yes |
| Virginia | $5,000 | $46–$62 | Yes |
| Washington | $10,000 | $14–$50 | No |
| West Virginia | $10,000 | $15–$50 | Yes |
| Wisconsin | $10,000 | $40–$95 | Yes |
| Wyoming | $6,000 | $10–$70 | Yes |
How We Calculate This
This small claims limit calculator uses established formulas and industry-standard data to provide accurate estimates.
- Enter your specific values into the calculator fields above
- Our algorithm applies the relevant formulas using your inputs
- Results are calculated instantly in your browser — nothing is sent to a server
- Review the detailed breakdown to understand how each factor affects your result
These calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. For critical decisions, always consult a qualified professional.
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Small claims courts handle civil disputes for relatively small amounts of money, with simplified procedures and lower costs than regular court.
The basic rule:
- Claim limits range from $2,500 to $25,000 depending on the state
- Filing fees are typically $30–$100, scaling with claim amount
- Many states do not allow attorneys in small claims court — you represent yourself
- Cases are usually heard within 30–90 days of filing
Small claims court is designed to be accessible without a lawyer. Common cases include landlord-tenant disputes, property damage, unpaid debts, and contract disputes. If your claim exceeds your state's limit, you may need to file in a higher court or reduce your claim.
When Would You Use This Calculator?
This small claims limit calculator is designed for anyone who needs quick, reliable estimates without complex spreadsheets or professional consultations.
- When you need a quick estimate before committing to a purchase or project
- When comparing different options or scenarios side by side
- When planning a budget and need to understand potential costs
- When you want to verify a quote or estimate you've received from a professional
- When teaching or learning about the concepts behind these calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Oregon handle this differently?
Oregon has its own specific rules, rates, and limits that may differ significantly from federal guidelines or other states. This calculator uses Oregon-specific data where available. Always verify with a local professional for important decisions.
What is the maximum I can sue for in small claims court?
It depends on your state. Limits range from $2,500 (Kentucky, Rhode Island) to $25,000 (Delaware, Tennessee). Most states fall in the $5,000-$10,000 range. You can choose to reduce your claim to fit within the limit, but you waive the excess amount.
How much does it cost to file a small claims case?
Filing fees typically range from $30 to $100, depending on the state and claim amount. Some states have tiered fees — the higher your claim, the higher the fee. You may be able to recover filing fees from the defendant if you win.
Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?
In many states, attorneys are not allowed in small claims court (California, Michigan, etc.). In others, attorneys are permitted but not required. Small claims court is specifically designed for people to represent themselves with simplified rules.
What can I sue for in small claims court?
Common small claims cases include unpaid debts, security deposit disputes, property damage, breach of contract, defective products or services, auto accident damage, and neighbor disputes. You generally cannot sue for libel, slander, or ask for an injunction.
How long does a small claims case take?
From filing to hearing is typically 30-90 days. The hearing itself usually takes 15-30 minutes. The judge may rule immediately or mail the decision within a few days. Collecting the judgment may take additional time if the defendant doesn't pay voluntarily.
Can I appeal a small claims court decision?
Rules vary by state. Some states allow either party to appeal for a new trial in a higher court. Others only allow the defendant to appeal. A few states don't allow appeals from small claims at all. Appeals typically must be filed within 30 days.